PNP revokes gun privileges of motorist in viral road rage video
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has revoked the privilege to own and carry firearms outside the residence of a motorist who figured in a viral confrontation with a bicycle rider in Quezon City early this month.
Police Brig. Gen. Benjamin Silo, Jr., director of the PNP-Civil Security Group (CSG), said the License To Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF), Firearm Registration (FR) and Permit To Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR) of the motorist were already revoked.
“As a reminder to all licensed citizens, it is of utmost importance to be responsible gun owners at all times. The possession and ownership of firearms are not absolute rights but rather a privilege,” said Silo.
The motorist, who identified himself as Willie Gonzales in a press briefing at Camp Karingal on Sunday, Aug. 27, already surrendered his gun to the Quezon City Police District and expressed readiness to accept the decision of the PNP with regard to his gun ownership.
Gonzales was the motorist who was captured in a viral video hitting a bicycle rider and later pulling out a gun.
In the press briefing, he said he already settled the case with the bicycle rider.
Despite the agreement, the PNP deems Gonzales’ action as a ground to strip him of gun privileges.
“The PNP reserves the authority to revoke LTOPF, Firearm Registration and PTCFOR, especially in cases where there are grounds for revocation and cancellation,” said Silo.
“Public safety remains a top priority for the PNP, and measures will be continually taken to maintain the integrity of the licensure system. The PNP emphasizes the significance of responsible gun ownership in creating a safe and secure environment for all citizens,” he added.
Ex-cop with 3 guns
For his part, PNP chief information officer Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan confirmed that Gonzales used to be a cop who was dismissed from the service in 2018.
"Based on the records, he owns three firearms and his LTOPF was already revoked as ordered by the Chief PNP Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr.," said Maranan.
It was recalled that during a press briefing on Sunday, Aug. 27, at Camp Karingal, Gonzales surrendered the gun he was carrying at the time of the incident.
Perpetual disqualification
Maranan said the disqualification for Gonzales to own and possess firearms is perpetual.
He said the Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) will write Gonzales to turn over all the three firearms registered under his name.
If he would fail to do so, Maranan said the PNP will apply a search warrant to get all the firearms.